PROTON EXPLORING CKD OPERATIONS IN EGYPT

From Mahanum Abdul Aziz

CAIRO, Dec 1 (Bernama) -- National carmaker Proton Holdings Bhd is
exploring
the possibility of undertaking CKD (completely-knocked down) operations in
Egypt.

Its managing director, Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir, said Egypt,
with a population of 80 million, was a big market and Proton cars had received
encouraging response.

He said total car sales in Egypt could touch 500,000 units going forward
from more than 200,000 units a year now.

"We are exploring the possibility of not only undertaking CBU (completely
built-up) but also the CKD if the opportunity is right. We are still evaluating
the possibility and has not make any decision," he told reporters after the
launch of Proton Persona and the facelifted Gen.2 models here last week.

Syed Zainal Abidin said Egypt could become a gateway to the northern
African
region to serve countries like Morocco, Sudan, Algeria and Tunisia.

Currently, Proton has sold over 5,500 cars in Egypt since its debut
in 2001.

Proton exports about 2,000 cars a month to 24 countries including the
UK, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore.

On Proton's plan to strengthen its presence in the Middle Eastern market,
Syed Zainal Abidin said the company was looking to set up an office in the
region.

He said so far it has not decided on which country.

"Soon, there will be an office somewhere in the Middle East. We are also
looking to have a warehouse for our spare parts," he said.
-- BERNAMA